American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall said a federal vaccine mandate on non-U.S. citizens traveling to the United States will lead to more supply chain issues. Last week, the Department of Homeland Security announced enforcement of the vaccine requirement, which includes essential workers, traveling to the United States. Duvall says Farm Bureau is concerned that the decision “will limit agriculture’s ability to grow safe and nutritious food.”

Farm Bureau said DHS failed to provide proper notice of the mandate, which gives farmers, ranchers and agriculture suppliers no time to prepare. Farmworkers and truck drivers provide critical skills and have been designated as essential by the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency. Duvall adds that further limiting the available workforce will exacerbate existing supply chain issues as families face rising prices and fewer options at the grocery store.

Homeland Security says the travel restriction will remain in place until April 21st.

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